Kobbie Mainoo has reportedly been left 'unhappy' with the initial terms that he has been offered by Manchester United when it comes to a potential new contract at Old Trafford.
The 19-year-old has a deal with the Red Devils until the summer of 2027, with the option of a further 12 months, but he is only believed to be on £20,000 a week at the club, making him one of the lowest earners in the first team.
Mainoo has had his difficulties this season, but he put in an outstanding performance against Liverpool in the Premier League on Sunday, as the Red Devils picked up a point in a 2-2 draw at Anfield.
In total, the England international has made 52 appearances for Man United, scoring five times and registering one assist, although he is yet to provide a goal or an assist in 17 outings during the 2024-25 campaign.
It has been claimed that the Red Devils have not ruled out a departure for Mainoo due to their financial situation, as his status as a former academy player means that any sale would represent pure profit under the Premier League's Profit and Sustainability rules.
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Mainoo 'unhappy with contract offer from Man United'
According to the Manchester Evening News, Mainoo has been left frustrated with the initial offer that he has been presented to renew his contract considering his status at Old Trafford.
Mainoo's situation will alert a number of major European clubs, as despite his struggles this season, the midfielder is regarded to be one of the outstanding young talents in English football.
According to the Daily Mail, Chelsea are at the head of the queue for the teenager, with the Blues ready to make a move if it becomes clear that the Red Devils are prepared to let him depart.
The report claims that Mainoo is unlikely to leave this month, but a departure this summer cannot be ruled out, and Chelsea are confident that they have the funds in place to secure the midfielder's services.
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What are Mainoo's wage demands?
Mainoo is believed to want in the region of £200,000 a week, including bonuses, which Chelsea are thought to be willing to pay.
Man United, on the other hand, are attempting to significantly reduce their wage budget; departures for unwanted first-team stars will place them in a much stronger position, though, when it comes to offering the deal that Mainoo desires.
Casemiro and Marcus Rashford collect £375,000 and £315,000 a week respectively, while Antony is on £200,000 a week, and all three are currently being linked with departures.
Victor Lindelof and Christian Eriksen will more than likely leave on free transfers this summer, but Man United are also attempting to boost their squad, with Paris Saint-Germain duo Nuno Mendes and Randal Kolo Muani viewed as targets.
Mainoo is also said to have concerns over the direction of Man United, with the Red Devils currently down in 13th spot in the Premier League table, some 13 points behind fourth-placed Chelsea.
Matt Law
